Thanks for your interest in our fundraising efforts for victims of the fires in both Northern and Southern California.  Due to the overwhelming response generating by this campaign, it’s taking us a little longer than expected to finish up the organizational details.  We expect to contact everybody involved shortly.  We appreciate your patience, and we appreciate your support of the charitable organizations assisting the fire victims.

A good glass of Cognac has a life to it. There’s heft and zip that come from more than just the liquid you drink – a great Cognac has the weight of history and a vibrancy that you can taste and sense as you sip. My fellow K&L spirits liaison, Jackson Lee, and I experienced the many faces Cognac has to offer – all its nuances, shades, and depths – at a dinner in San Francisco for Courvoisier’s L’Essence.

Upon arriving at the headquarters of Maison Ferrand, one is greeted by a lovely 18th century chateau set against the bucolic scenery of Cognac. The fields, vineyards, and country lanes, all give a distinctly old world feel. This staid environment, which is imbued with centuries of history, conveys an inescapable air of stodginess. But, as it turns out, looks can be deceiving. While Maison Ferrand certainly pays due respect to the great traditions and history of the property (as is evidenced by countless paintings and references to the founder throughout), the current team, led by Alexandre Gabriel, have made great strides in infusing this historic estate with a new vitality.